Asks for accommodation of Aragalaya viewpoints

I will support the NLNP in whatever way I can but I will not get on to the political platform again

By Yohan Perera 

Former President Chandrika Kumaratunga yesterday said no one could engage in politics in Sri Lanka in the future by forgetting the sentiments of the Aragalaya activists.

Ms. Kumaratunga who was speaking at the opening of Nawa Lanka Nidahas Pakshaya led by MP Kumara Welgama said a new era has been dawned in Sri Lankan politics as a result of the aragalaya. 

“Please remember that the youth who launched the ‘Argalaya’ are keeping a close watch on politicians today. You won’t be able to do politics forgetting them. Don’t think that the aragalaya  is over as it has only begun. It will come up strongly if their demands are not met,” she added. 

Ms. Kumaratunga scoffed at the reports which said she will come back to active politics through the newly formed Nawa Lanka Nidahas Pakshaya  (NLNP). “Some say that I am to take up certain positions in NLNP but these are lies. I have already gone on political retirement at the age of 61 and have said I will not come back to politics. I will keep my word,” Ms. Kumaratunga said.

“I will support the NLNP in whatever way I can but I will not get on to the political platform again,” she added. 
“The former President advised the leader of NLNP not to accept anyone who had been charged with corruption. They might come and fall on their knees but don’t welcome them to your party. Rajapaksas introduced a culture of entitlement as they thought they could do what they liked as they were elected by the people. No decent political leader emerged in this country after 1977 except for a handful. The political situation in Sri Lanka went down further after 2005,” she also said. 

She said she was happy to see former SLFPers such as Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Chandima Weerakkody and Jeewan Kumaratunga and former ministers such as Patali Champika Ranawaka at yesterday’s opening.